The Varsity and Junior Varsity cheerleading squads of Southern Academy have earned honors and accolades at the University Cheerleaders Association (UCA) camp held at Troy University from June 19-22.
Coached by Sarah Beth Drury, the Varsity cheerleaders achieved the title of AISA State Champion Small Squad Runner-Up. Additionally, they placed third in Camp Routine, second in Sideline, and secured the first place in both Cheer and Overall Gameday. Five team members – Madeline Chapman, Anna Kate Morrison, Olivia Mosley, Marie Plummer, and Kaitlyn Sluder – were distinguished as UCA All-Americans. Furthermore, seniors and team leaders Madeline Chapman and Kaitlyn Sluder were selected as AISA All-Stars, and they will represent the East Side in the AISA All-Star Football Game in December.
Meanwhile, the Junior Varsity cheerleaders, under the guidance of Samantha Lindsey, demonstrated significant achievement during the camp. The team earned blue Superior Ribbons and a trophy. Emma Claire Haney received the prestigious Pin It Forward, an award given by a UCA staff member to a camper who has shown outstanding qualities. Mary Elizabeth Kyser, Hayden Harrison, Macie Sluder, Maddie Langham, and Emma Claire Haney were selected as UCA All-American Cheerleaders.
Both teams received strong support from the Southern Academy football team, who attended the camp in solidarity with their cheerleading counterparts.
